How to Relieve the Pain Caused by TMJ

TMJ pain is no joke. It may seem random, but there are serious physiologic, biologic, and even neurologic answers to what may be going on. A TMJ doctor is still not an expert in treating TMJ pain, but there are ways to find relief on your own.

Many patients start with heat and cold treatments. The nature and placement of the pain may react better to one or a combination of both, but joint pain has been treated with heat pads and ice for generations. Just remember to keep the heat moist, and not to place an ice pack directly on your skin.

Of course, you can always use over-the-counter pain medications. You should be careful to use the correct dosage, and never dip into prescription pills you may have lying around. Prescription pills for pain should only be administered by a doctor. Self-medication could worsen your TMJ.

Some patients are having luck with massage. You can do this yourself, or go to an expert. If you’re self-massaging, familiarize yourself with the masseter muscles just behind your molars. By moving your fingers in a circular motion, you can stimulate the muscles and improve lymph function.

Ask our expert in TMJ relief in Thousand Oaks for more tips.